Brumbies

Evans out for 14 weeks

The Highlanders’ worst fears for the immediate future of key player Nick Evans were confirmed today with news that he will be out of rugby for 14 weeks.

Evans has a badly broken right collarbone and his period out of the game was determined today after further examination.

The injury occurred in last weekend’s Rebel Sport Super 14 game against the Bulls in Pretoria.

‘It’s very disappointing, but I guess that’s part and parcel of being involved in the game,’ he said. ‘I’m sorry that I won’t be able to help the Highlanders on the field but they’ll still have my support and input off it while I go through the rehabilitation process and hope to be fit for the Air New Zealand Cup.’

Highlanders coach Greg Cooper said it was disappointing for Nick and the team. ‘He’s a player and a man of rare quality and he’ll certainly be missed,’ he said.

Callum Bruce, who replaced Evans at Loftus Versfeld, will start at No 10 against the Sharks on Saturday and first five-eighth will be covered in the reserves by Ryan Bambry. Cooper said a permanent replacement for Evans was still to be determined.